Posted: 6/26/2003 | June 23rd, 2023

Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s home to impressive museums, historic buildings, picturesque plazas, chilled-out cafes, and a lively mix of clubs and candlelit music venues where people go to listen to traditional fado music. I fell in love with the city as soon as I arrived — and it was even better the second time!

Today, Lisbon is one of the most popular cities on the continent. From cruisers to digital nomads, everyone loves this sunny city. I’ve visited a few times over the years and always look forward to going back. The warm weather, inviting colors, and laid-back vibe really make people feel welcome.

The best way to see the city, though (especially if it’s your first time) is to take a walking tour. It’s the first thing I do when I visit a new city as it’s the best way to connect with a local guide, get insider info, and see the main sights.

These days, there are a ton of walking tours available to ensure you make the most of your visit. Here’s a list of my favorites – from free tours to food tours to pub crawls – to help you sort through it all so you just end up with the best!

Here are a few more walking tour options to help you make the most of your time in Lisbon:

1. Devour

Devour started in Spain and quickly began doing tours in Lisbon. They offer a food and fado tour, mixing two cultural highlights of Lisbon on one tour. I personally like the Tastes & Traditions food tour they do: you stop at seven small businesses in Lisbon, eating up to nine samples and sipping three different types of beverages. Devour is one of the best food tour companies in Europe and their Lisbon tours are no exception.

Tours start at 95 EUR.

2. Inside Lisbon

This tour company offers a whole range of tours but their Best of Lisbon introductory tour is perfect for both first-time Lisbon visitors and budget travelers. The three-hour tour starts at 9:30am and takes you through some of the city’s main neighborhoods, making a stop for wine and a bite of the famous pastry, pastel de nata (an egg custard tart). The group tours max out at 14 people.

Tours start at 18 EUR.

3. City Guru Street Art Tour

Street art has taken over the world’s big cities, including Lisbon. On this three-hour tour, you’ll see some of the best works in the city and learn about the social and political motives behind them. Tours are led by a local street artist too, so you’ll really get an insider’s look at the scene and visit murals most other tours skip.

Tours start at 35 EUR.

4. Pancho Tours

Pancho does tours all over the Iberian Peninsula, using local guides and crafting itineraries that focus on street art, tapas and wine, and day trips to places like Sintra. Personally, I like their fado music tour. During the 2.5-hour tour, you’ll learn everything there is about this melancholic music that’s endemic to Portugal. You’ll get a front-row seat at a fado show in the center of Lisbon at the end.

Tours start at around 40 EUR.

5. We Hate Tourism Tours

Overtourism is a problem in many cities, particularly in Europe, with crowds of people ping-ponging from one attraction to the next. Hence, the idea behind We Hate Tourism Tours: the 3.5-hour walking tour takes you to some way off-the-radar neighborhoods to show you how the people of Lisbon really live. There are only about six people per tour, which keeps things intimate. It also means you should book in advance as tours sell out fast. I love how they are getting people out of the main touristy areas and showing you a real look at Lisbon life. I can’t recommend this tour enough.

Tours start at 40 EUR.

6. Discover Lisbon Pub Crawl

Lisbon has a very lively nightlife these days and, if you’re looking for a way to see it while also meeting other travelers, the classic pub crawl is a good way to go. This tour takes you to three spots, with a free shot at the first and the third stop. Plus, there’s a one-hour period of all-you-can-drink cider or sangria. It’s a great option for solo travelers looking to meet other people. It’s not a real “local” thing but it’s fun!

Tours start at 20 EUR.

Lisbon has walking tours for just about every interest and budget, which is one of the many reasons I love the city. Whenever I visit, I always take a tour or two because the city just has so much to see and do, and the local guides always add a ton of value to my trip. These tours allow you to get an inside perspective on life here and ask locals questions on where to go, what to do, and how to act. Be sure to take at least one of these tours while you are in the city.
 

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed, 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It gets straight to the practical information you need to save money while backpacking around Europe. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and more! Click here to learn more and get started!